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U.C. Berkeley Students: What Does Free Speech Mean to You?

Demonstrators in Berkeley, Calif., protested a planned speech by the right-wing writer Milo Yiannopoulos in February. His speech was eventually canceled.Credit
Elijah Nouvelage/Getty Images

The University of California, Berkeley, often regarded as the birthplace of the free speech movement, entered the national spotlight in February when a planned speech on campus by the divisive right-wing writer Milo Yiannopoulos was canceled in the wake of violent protests. In the months that followed, more debates have flared over invited speakers — including the conservative figures Ann Coulter and Ben Shapiro.

The debate over free speech on campus has been reignited this month ahead of “Free Speech Week,” a four-day event organized by the Berkeley Patriot, a conservative student publication, that includes a lineup of controversial speakers. Mr. Yiannopoulos is scheduled to make an appearance. Ms. Coulter and Stephen K. Bannon, a former chief strategist to President Trump, were said to be attending, though they have not been confirmed.

As the university braces for more protests, Times reporters would like to hear from students and faculty at U.C. Berkeley: What does freedom of expression on a college campus mean to you?

Please share your story using the form below. Your name and comments may be published, but your contact information will not. A reporter or editor might contact you to learn more about your story.

Is there any type of speech you think should not be allowed on campus? *

Did U.C. Berkeley’s history as a beacon of free speech influence your decision to attend? *

Has the issue of free speech come up in any of your classes? If so, how was it raised and what was the context? *

Are you concerned about campus safety during Free Speech Week? *

What is your name? *

(First and last preferred, please.)

How old are you?

Are you a student or faculty member? *

Student

Faculty

Other

Where do you live? *

(city and state, please.)

What is your email address? *

What is your phone number?

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